Purpose: To assist the participants to develop an understanding of high and low self-esteem because recognition is the first step toward change. image
Length of time: Twenty minutes
Materials: Board/flipchart
Instructor's Notes:
High self-esteem is important not only for emotional well being but, also for the overall quality of life. How people feel about themselves also helps define the way people respond to each other. The inner confidence gained when people value themselves, will help them face any challenges they may be faced with in their lives.

Method:
  1. Write the term SELF-ESTEEM in the middle of the board and simply have the participants call out what the term means to them. There are no right or wrong answers.
  2. Write the term HIGH self-esteem on the board and ask the participants what does it LOOK like?

Similarly, write the term LOW self-esteem on the board and solicit from the participants what it looks like. Examples are given.

High Self-Esteem
Low Self-Esteem
  • is expressed by a positive outlook of the future
  • maintaining direct eye contact
  • upright posture
  • expressing opinions
  • accepting criticism
  • not being afraid to wear colourful clothing
  • good, open listening
  • willingness to take risks
  • using assertive language - "I ...
  • being respectful
  • displaying an optimistic outlook
  • is expressed by negative talk about the future
  • lack of eye contact
  • slouching
  • inability to speak up
  • putting others down; undermining words
  • wearing baggy, dark clothing. Tendency to hide their face, i.e., hair falling on face.
  • nail biting
  • inappropriate behaviour
  • is passive in nature
  • always apologizing
  • assuming responsibility for everybody and everything
  • pessimistic outlook
  • tired looking


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